Things To Do Near Pullman National Monument
Pullman National Monument includes several different sites, many located within walking distance of each other. The visitor center is a convenient and central place to park. Some spots, including the National A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum, offer limited street parking. The South Chicago metro area surrounds this historic community, ensuring that you're always close to a great restaurant or shopping experience.
Hiking Trails
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Circle Park Trails
Stretch your legs on the trails at Circle Park, which sits adjacent to Pullman National Monument. The park is small and pretty, with plenty of trees and benches. The paths are paved and flat, so they're a breeze to navigate with kids, strollers, and wheelchairs. Leave your car in the monument parking lot, and walk across E 111th Place to reach the trails.
Location
E 111th Place and S St. Lawrence Ave., Chicago, IL 60628
Length
Varies
Intensity
Easy
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Palmer Park Trails
A short walk from Pullman National Monument, you'll find Pullman Park. A network of paved and packed-dirt trails runs through this large park, which is popular with local families. Enjoy a breezy walk under the trees, or take little ones to the playground and large, open fields.
Location
201 E. 111th St., Chicago, IL 60628
Length
1 mile round trip
Intensity
Easy
Sightseeing
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Hotel Florence
Walk through Circle Park from the visitor center to reach the Hotel Florence, which was built in 1881. When the Pullman factory was in operation, company executives often stayed at the luxury hotels. The ornate structure and large, wraparound porch are remarkably well-preserved. Artifacts and furniture from the hotel are on display in the visitor center.
Location
11111 S. Forrestville Ave., Chicago, Illinois
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Pullman Administration Clock Tower Building
During the height of Pullman's productivity, the Pullman Administration Clock Tower Building was the center of business. The grand stone building is a short walk from the visitor center. Although it's not open to the public, you can admire the architecture from the sidewalk. Walk north along Cottage Grove Avenue to see the manufacturing section, which extends for hundreds of feet.
Location
11057 S Cottage Grove Ave. Chicago, IL
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Historic Pullman Employee Housing
When Pullman was founded, factory workers in Chicago were often housed in poorly maintained tenements. The historic Pullman homesoffered significantly better living conditions; built in rowhouse style, the buildings incorporate Queen Anne architectural elements and grand red-brick facades. To see some of the homes, head over to the remains of the Market Hall on the corner of E 112th Street and S Champlain Avenue, and walk north.
Location
11159 S Champlain Ave, Chicago, IL 60628
Museums
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National A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum
Learn about the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters union at the National A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum. Many of the museum exhibits are dedicated to the union, which was made up of African American men; it was the first of its kind to gain recognition from the American Federation of Labor. In 1937, the union succeeded at reaching a labor agreement with Pullman. The museum also explores the role of African Americans in the labor force throughout the history of the United States.
Location
10406 S.Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL 60628
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Bronzeville Children's Museum
If you're visiting the Pullman National Monument with kids, drive 3 miles north, and spend a few hours at the Bronzeville Children's Museum. Using interactive exhibits and play areas, this museum brings African American history to life. Visit the ComEd gallery to learn about African American inventors, or head to the STEM Tour area to discover science, technology, engineering, and math exhibits. With its wide range of topic areas and experiences, this museum is fun and engaging for kids of all ages.
Location
9301 S Stony Island Ave, Chicago, IL 60617
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Underground Bookstore
If you're in the market for campfire reading material, Underground Bookstore is the place to go. Located about 4 miles north of Pullman National Monument, this locally owned spot has an excellent collection of literature from African American authors and writers from the African Diaspora.
Location
1727 E 87th St, Chicago, IL 60617
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City Sports
Pick up a pair of comfortable shoes or outdoor clothing at City Sports, which is located less than 1 mile from Pullman National Monument. The inventory includes items for women, men, and children, so you can shop for the entire family.
Location
11102 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60628
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Richard's Super Premium Ice Cream
Cool off on a steamy Chicago summer day with a visit to Richard's Super Premium Ice Cream. A local favorite, this friendly shop offers unique flavors and enormous desserts. Don't miss the banana pudding and sweet potato pie flavors.
Location
11033 S Langley Ave, Chicago, IL 60628
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Majani Restaurant
Serving some of the best vegan food in South Chicago, Majani Restaurant is always busy. The menu offers vegan twists on classic dishes, including black eye pea tacos and lentil sloppy Joes. If you're in the mood for something sweet, make sure to leave room for a cookie or cupcake.
Location
756 E 111th St, Chicago, IL 60628
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Cal-Harbor Restaurant & Lounge
Enjoy the friendly diner atmosphere at Cal-Harbor Restaurant & Lounge, a casual spot with a low-key vibe. The menu is large and varied with options ranging from enormous egg breakfasts to stir fry dinners.
Location
546 E 115th St, Chicago, IL 60628